Gene Collins

Michael W. Twitty, born in 1977, is a writer, historian, and educator of African-American, Mende, Akan, and Irish descent. His work delves into culinary history, particularly African and African-American foodways, and the complex legacies of ancestry, including his own Irish lineage which included enslavers.

Twitty's interest in historical cooking began in childhood, leading him to study African-American studies and anthropology. He is the author of "The Cooking Gene," which earned a James Beard Foundation Book Award. His other works include "Koshersoul" and "Recipes From the American South." He also founded the Southern Discomfort Tour, a project that immerses participants in the experiences of enslaved ancestors to highlight the impact of racism on Southern cuisine.

Twitty converted to Judaism in his twenties and is openly gay. He has gained significant media attention for his insights on food, history, and social justice, including a TED talk and appearances on television series. He launched his culinary history blog, Afroculinaria, in 2010.

Michael W. Twitty's work centers on the deep connections between food, history, and identity. Through his blog Afroculinaria and his acclaimed book "The Cooking Gene," he meticulously traces the evolution of African and African-American culinary traditions. His research extends to understanding the instrumental role of specific plants, like the long-handled dipper gourd and fish pepper, in the survival and self-sufficiency of African Americans. Twitty's personal journey involves exploring his own complex ancestry, which includes Mende, Akan, and Irish roots, acknowledging the historical entanglement of his Irish forebears with slavery. This exploration of heritage is not merely academic but a lived experience, as demonstrated by his Southern Discomfort Tour, where he actively engages in the physical labor and cooking practices of enslaved individuals.

Beyond his focus on African-American foodways, Twitty's identity is multifaceted, encompassing his conversion to Judaism and his status as an openly gay man. This intersectionality informs his perspective on culture and history. His book "Koshersoul" explores the convergence of Jewish and Black culinary traditions, highlighting shared experiences and unique expressions. Twitty's public engagement often addresses social justice issues within the context of food, as seen in his TED talk on gastronomy and social justice. He has been recognized for his contributions through various awards and honors, including the Revolutionary in Residence title from Colonial Williamsburg, underscoring his role in re-examining and presenting historical narratives.